Mountain Biking - Disc brake conversion?

Hello again.

I have pretty much made up my mind on a bike(almost) I am either going with a Specialized rockhopper comp, or the rockhopper FSR comp. I just can't decide on a hardtail of FS just yet . Both prices are right at the msrp from my local dealer.

My question is once I do get my bike , down the road I plan on swapping to disc brakes , you know later once this bike is paid off,probably after this summer. I can deal with the stock brakes for a while.

My question is what is needed as far as components to complete the conversion? and any advise on brand and cost if I do all the work myselfe?

I read a bunch of back posts on the subject and pretty much found the #'s of $70 to $80 per wheel to switch? But what else id required, new wheels,cables,disc's ??????? just not too clear.

Thanks again for any info or advise.
Mike

Make sure the frame and fork will accept disc's. Probably will. Most bikes do these days. You will need disc brake hubs, (to mount the rotors). If you get mechanical discs, that's pretty much it, except for new cables. Your v-brake cables won't be long enough.

Acording to Specialized, both bikes come with disc ready wheel sets so that is not a problem. Also both frames are disc compatable(I.S.). Basically all you need to do is decide on which disc brakes you want and install them.

:beer:

If the Specialized does come with disc ready hubs and disc tabs on the frame and fork, then all you'll need is the rotors and calipers if you go mechanical. I and many others here would highly recommend the Avid mechanicals. If you go with Hydraulics, you'll not only need the calipers, but the associated levers and hoses. Many companies will sell complete brakes front or rear with pre-bled hoses at a specific length.

The big question you've got to ask yourself is, "Do I need discs?" for many people the answer is Yes, but should really be no. Most people just WANT them, and that's cool. I've got some and I don't NEED them.

If you want/need discs, it is usually cheaper to get them with your new bike (always exceptions of course!).

Personally, I'd upgrade the fork before I spent money on the brakes.

L8R

I upgraded to front discs recently (I don't have rear disc brake bosses on my older hardtail-although I understand there is a bracket you can buy to accomodate rr discs). If you go mechanical, like the Avids, you'll need: disc compatible hubs/wheels (approx $130/pair for xt/rhyno lites from Pricepoint), disk brake kit (approx $70-pricepoint, each) which includes calipers, pads, and rotor, and a new brake cable (your current ones likely aren't long enough). Installation was pretty easy but I'm noticing that they seem to be a little more maintainence sensitive-I'm always ajusting the pad to rotor space as they wear. Performance is better and no more squeeling or grinding noises up front.